WOMEN’S BODIES: PREVENTING TINEA
Tinea, a fungal infection of the skin, is a very common problem in Australia. We all carry a few fungi on our skin, generally without problems. However, when their growth is encouraged by excessive dampness of the skin, they can cause
inflammation.
Tinea of the feet causes redness, itching and sometimes painful cracks on the sole and between the toes. It’s often called athlete’s foot because it’s so common on hot, sweaty feet that spend a lot of time
in gym shoes. It’s also very common in
people who use communal showers at swimming pools, gyms, residential colleges and so on.
Tinea can also affect skin crevices (such
as the groin, between the buttocks and under heavy breasts) in hot, humid weather, causing a red, itchy rash with an irregular edge. This rash can spread quickly, so if it occurs see your doctor about treatment (and to make sure that it is tinea). You can reduce the chance of this type of tinea by drying carefully in skin folds, always wearing cotton next to your skin, helping sweat to evaporate by wearing loose cotton clothes and using fans when it’s hot and humid.
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